This paper presents an exploratory study of the psychological and social factors related to the choice and practice of the various medical specialities, based on the sociological formulation of Bourdieu and the considerations of Dejours concerning man's encounter with his work. The study was based on the analysis of an open interview and social survey questionnaire applied on 40 active medical doctors of both sexes, different ages, and several specialities, in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The results of a thorough analysis of the interviews reveals that: a) the psychological conflicts inherent in the formation of a medical identity and the practice of medicine are influenced by acquired socio-economic elements that lead to differing practical solutions and results depending on social class descent; b) the experiences of each individual, according to his/her socio-economic status, determine the organisation and complexity of his/her subjective space and, therefore, of his/her perceptions and practical behaviour; c) the hierarchy of values in Medicine can be considered as a collective defence against anxieties resulting from medical tasks and the constant dealing with situations of powerlessness.
Psychosocial approach; medical specialities; medical identity
